Turning Off the Clock: A Moment of National Healing in Israel

The clock in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, a symbol of Israelis' call for the release of hostages from the October 2023 Hamas attack, will be turned off. Ran Gvili, the last hostage, was found dead in Gaza. His return is seen as a national healing moment, closing a traumatic chapter.

The clock in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, which has symbolized the call for hostage release since the Hamas attack in October 2023, is set to be turned off. This act follows the Israeli military's announcement that the body of the last hostage, Ran Gvili, has been recovered from Gaza.

Ran Gvili, a 24-year-old off-duty police officer, was killed in the 2023 attack while defending against militants. Gvili's family expresses gratitude for widespread support, marking his return as a proud moment despite deep loss. His mother, Talik, described their closure as a moment of pride for Gvili's heroism.

The return of Gvili's body marks a moment of national healing, as the closing of Hostages Square signalizes the end of a painful era. This also ties into a broader political context, with ongoing developments in the U.S.-brokered plan to end conflict in the region, highlighting significant political and humanitarian issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)